As reported by Tech Labari, the Cloud Native Computing Foundation® (CNCF®) and Andela have teamed up to address the rising demand for skilled tech professionals in Africa. This ambitious partnership aims to train 20,000 to 30,000 developers in Kubernetes and cloud-native technologies, preparing them for global remote job opportunities in the next few years. Collaborating with Linux Foundation Education, the initiative offers free training programs designed to cover foundational concepts in Kubernetes and cloud-native computing. Participants will work toward earning prestigious certifications such as Kubernetes and Cloud Native Associate (KCNA) and Certified Kubernetes Application Developer (CKAD).
The need for highly skilled cloud-native developers continues to grow, and African developers are increasingly recognized in global tech markets. According to Google’s 2021 Africa Developer Ecosystem Report, remote work demand surged during the pandemic, opening up international opportunities for African talent. The report revealed that 38% of African developers now work for organizations outside the continent, reflecting a significant shift in the tech workforce.
Carrol Chang, CEO of Andela, emphasized the pivotal role of Africa’s emerging developer community in addressing the worldwide tech talent deficit. She highlighted the increasing need for expertise in areas like artificial intelligence and cloud-native technologies, positioning Africa’s developer base as a vital resource for closing the gap.
Recent research by CNCF underscores the transformative impact of cloud-native certifications. Over half of surveyed developers (55%) secured new jobs after completing their training, with 67% reporting improved job satisfaction and engagement. However, financial barriers remain a significant obstacle, with 81% citing cost as a deterrent to obtaining certifications. This partnership directly addresses these challenges by making training accessible to underrepresented communities while catering to the global demand for tech talent.
Set to kick off in 2025, the program will draw participants from Andela’s talent pool, which spans 49 African countries, including tech hubs like Nigeria, Kenya, and Ghana. This initiative represents a major step forward in equipping Africa’s growing pool of young developers with the skills to thrive in a competitive global market.
By fostering talent across the continent, CNCF, Andela, and Linux Foundation Education aim to build a bridge between Africa’s dynamic developer community and global tech opportunities.
